← South Dakota Farm Programs Guide

Hand County, South Dakota

Farm Programs & Local Resources

Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error

Rolling prairie terrain with numerous creeks and draws cutting through the landscape. The county features glacial till soils and scattered wetlands, with elevation ranging from creek bottoms to prairie uplands.

Diversified farming operations combine cattle ranching with crop production, utilizing both native grasslands and cultivated fields. Corn, soybeans, and small grains are grown in rotation, while extensive pasture lands support cow-calf operations.

Quick Facts
RegionCentral
Top CommoditiesCorn, Soybeans, Cattle & calves, Wheat, Sheep, Horses
Farms & Ranches~410 (approx.)
Agricultural Land~910,000 acres
Average Farm Size~2,300 acres

Find Your Local USDA Offices

Your nearest USDA Service Center houses both NRCS and FSA under one roof.

Find your Service Center:

→ USDA Service Center Locator

Search for "Hand County" to find your local NRCS and FSA offices.

What to do when you call: Ask for a conservation planner (EQIP/CSP) or loan officer (FSA). Mention your operation type and planned improvements.

Programs for Hand County Operations

Based on Hand County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:

Soil health initiatives through CSP and EQIP promote cover cropping and reduced tillage in crop rotations. Grassland conservation programs help maintain native prairie areas while supporting sustainable grazing practices.

Not sure which programs fit? Run our free eligibility screener — 2 minutes, personalized action packet.

Local Conservation Priorities

EQIP applications addressing local priorities score higher in ranking.

We don't have Hand County's specific LWG priorities yet.

Ask your local NRCS office: "What are the priority resource concerns in Hand County?"

Your Next Steps in Hand County

  1. Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
  2. Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
  3. Read the South Dakota guide: South Dakota Farm Programs Guide

Part of Farmer's Navigator. Built by ranchers. Free for everyone.